4 Ways to Thrive as an Introverted Physical Therapist

If you’re worried about how you can be successful as a physical therapist and an introvert, don’t sweat. As an introvert, you’re still kind, caring, and competent as a PT. In fact, you have just as much to offer as your extroverted colleagues. You don’t have to find a new career to thrive as an introverted PT, here are some tips on staying true to yourself.

1) Embrace it!

There’s so much power in being yourself. When you embrace who you are then you can use your strengths to help your patients. Being able to empower your patients by just being yourself will help improve your patient relationships. When you can be yourself, they can be themselves.

2) Take Breaks

Not every day will allow it but try to find 5 to 10 minutes throughout the day to regroup and re-charge. You can also take this time during your lunch to spend some time alone so you can be at your best when it’s time to see patients. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

3) Practice Mindfulness

Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert practicing mindfulness can have immense benefits for both you and your patients! Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness can have benefits for reducing anxiety, depression, and stress. Lifewise, mindfulness is something you can incorporate into your patients’ practice to help with pain management.

4) Connect With Patients

Introverts often think before they speak which means they’re thoughtful and great listeners. As an introvert, you likely thrive with that one-on-one interaction. Being able to connect with patients is crucial for creating a personalized program that will help them achieve their goals in therapy.

Equipped with these tips, you can combine them with your PT skills to help bring your patients a unique and totally personalized program that helps them relieve their pain, gain their confidence back, and leave them feeling good.